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Taking Pets on Family Trips

Ashley

Joe Dunne, Publisher

Take Time to Balance

Staying in balance is more than a job—it is a mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual dedication. With only so much time in a day, it is a wonder we can achieve the tranquility that comes with true balance. On some days, I consider the monks in the hills, living a simple life, going about the tasks of their day while practicing silence. Well, it sounds like utopia.

We, on the other hand, live in a world of stress. Stress that we create from our thinking and perceptions; a stressfilled society that we often have invented. Then, if you are like me, you add to an already overfull pile by saying yes when no would have been just fine. Adding on more stress by stripping life of time. Time to rest, time to play, time to think, time to feel, time to wander.

On top of the personal stressors, there is also the news of the world stress bombarding us with sad, negative issues. Interject the social media trap, opinions, options, theories and blame, blame, and more blame. Avoiding stress, even sublevel stress seems next to impossible.

So, how do I find balance? How do I counteract the everyday stressors that come our way. It seems to me that my solutions always turn to acceptance, understanding, adjusting and changing perspectives. To seek the time…no, to make the time for self-care.

My responsibility to my own life means I must recognize and decide what is good for me. To recognize that my sanity matters, and that balance brings a better me to the family, work world, etc. Self-care is a good decision I must make, and with no guilt. The guilt should stem from me not taking care of me, not the other way around. Making my mental, spiritual and physical health not just a priority but a necessity is simply a good decision. Time out is a good thing, and many times so needed.

On your daily ‘To Do’ list, include a time to balance—whatever that may mean to you. We are all worth it. Honoring self-worth, that I matter, that my life is important enough to acknowledge, that no matter who I am, I am worth taking the time to balance, center, breathe, to continue. I am worth loving and so are you.

Take time for you,

Pranic Healer Dan McMeans Offers Healing Sessions

Dan McMeans is a gifted mind, body and spirit advisor that uses pranic healing and Reiki to help clients heal from a wide variety of complaints.

Pranic healing is a method of healing that uses the body’s energy fields and the lifeforce energy known as prana to help heal the mind, body, spirt. It is a highly evolved and tested non-touch modality based on the fundamental principle that the body is a “self-repairing” living entity that possesses the innate ability to heal itself.

With each healing session, clients receive a free copy of Dr. Wayne Dyer’s study of The Power of Intention, which propels one to succeed and explore the boundaries of unlimited mind.

For more information, call Dan at 267-5709042 or dan_mcmeans@yahoo.com or visit HolisticPranicHealer.com. See ad, page 17.

Why World Autism Day Matters to Me

by Debra Wallace Forman

As we celebrate World Autism Day on April 2, it is time to celebrate Adam, my 18-year-old son with autism, who navigates the world with a kind and tender heart. He has opened my eyes to the importance of accepting, including, and appreciating each of our children’s unique gifts and talents, instead of focusing on their quirks and shortcomings.

Currently, 1 in 36 children has been diagnosed with autism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which means that most of us know or love a child, teen, or adult with autism.

As a well-meaning ‘Mama Lion’ who will always protect, defend, and help her cub, I am struggling to find a way to foster his independence. This is a precarious dance that we do every single day. As a devoted advocate for my son, I have always refused to believe the naysayers who have been quick to tell me what Adam cannot do and will never be able to do. They want me to decrease my expectations for him so neither of us is disappointed. I have always refused.

So, let’s spend today celebrating the loving, caring, and empathetic young man I have the privilege of calling my son, and for goodness’ sake, stop putting Adam and his peers in the boxes that society has carved out for them. Never ever stop embracing their dreams, goals, and desires.

I believe with all my heart that every parent and child can step over those stumbling blocks and soar to new heights if love, tenacity, and desire are there.

Debra Wallace Forman is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings.

Debra Wallace Forman and Adam Courtesy of the Forman family

Dan McMeans

New Way to Diagnose Autism

According to a 2023 study by Yale scientists published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, two distinct neurodevelopmental abnormalities that arise shortly after the start of brain development have been linked to the emergence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The researchers created brain organoids using stem cells from 13 boys with the disorder, including eight with macrocephaly, a condition in which the head is enlarged. The organoids were small replicas of developing brains that mimicked neuronal growth in the fetus.

The study found that children with ASD and macrocephaly showed an excessive growth of excitatory neurons, while those without macrocephaly exhibited a deficit of the same type of neurons. Measuring the prevalence of certain types of neurons, as was done in this study, could help doctors diagnose autism and also identify which autism cases might benefit from existing drugs that treat excessive excitatory neuron activity.

County Declares Loneliness a Public Health Crisis

San Mateo County near San Francisco is the first county in the U.S. to declare loneliness a public health crisis. The resolution, which commits the county to address the issue but does not set aside funds to reduce loneliness, was inspired by the United Kingdom and Japan, which appointed ministers to tackle the problem. Future efforts by San Mateo County may include investments in infrastructure to make neighborhoods more accessible, social media posts that encourage social interaction, and the earmarking of community mental health dollars for organizations that develop or offer solutions.

Loneliness has been associated with increased risk of dementia, depression, anxiety, heart disease and stroke. A British study found that those that lived alone and had no visitors had a 39 percent increased risk of premature death compared to those visited by loved ones daily.

Maryna Auramchuk / CanvaPro fizkes

Treating Diabetes With Healthy Food and Exercise

A radical new approach to managing Type 2 diabetes developed by Daniel J. Cox, Ph.D., from UVA Health, has received $3.5 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health for a large-scale clinical trial. The approach focuses on educating individuals about making wise dietary and exercise choices to control blood sugar and potentially alter the course of the disease. Rather than prioritizing weight loss or medication, it aims to reduce post-meal blood glucose levels, which are linked to cardiovascular risk and high levels of AIC, a marker of blood sugar over time.

Known as Glucose Everyday Matters (GEM), the approach combines educated food and drink selections with physical activity to prevent blood sugar spikes and hasten recovery if they occur. A small, initial trial involving 17 recently diagnosed adults with Type 2 diabetes showed promise, with 67 percent achieving remission after three months, and only one participant requiring medication. This trial was the first testing of self-administration instead of face-to-face delivery by medical providers.

This research offers promising hope for managing Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle interventions, providing patients with new options for controlling and potentially achieving remission from the disease. Cox’s personal success with the approach, maintaining consistently low A1C levels without medication for the past 13 years, further supports its potential.

NARRATED BY MICHAEL BUBLÉ

"Like so many families, I have been deeply affected by Alzheimer's, so I was thrilled to become a part of this film when I realized that there's hope, and it's not just a death sentence."

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Dr. Dale Bredesen

New York Times

Bestselling author of The End of Alzheimer’s

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Sea of Methane Endangers Planet

Deep below the icy expanse of the Arctic lies a hidden danger that could have catastrophic consequences for our planet. Layers of methane gas are trapped beneath the permafrost, and as the landscape changes, this sea of methane has the potential to be unleashed, wreaking havoc on the world.

Studying the permafrost beneath the islands of Svalbard, researchers found an immense reservoir of methane that could reach several million cubic feet. Currently, the leakage from below the permafrost is minimal, but glacial retreat and permafrost thawing could “lift the lid” on this hidden danger, according to Thomas Birchall, a geologist at Norway’s University Center in Svalbard and lead author of a study published in Frontiers in Earth Science

Ocean currents can thin the permafrost, creating patchy and unpredictable regions. Geographical features can also allow gas produced by underlying rocks to escape. Even in areas with continuous permafrost, methane gas can migrate beneath the cold seal of the permafrost, creating the potential for escape.

A large-scale seepage would initiate a dangerous feedback loop of warming—a cycle where methane release leads to further permafrost thaw, resulting in additional gas emissions. While the focus of the study was on Norway, the researchers believe that migrating deposits of methane are likely present in other parts of the Arctic region as well.

In Vitro Fertilization May Save Nearly Extinct Rhino

Scientists at the BioRescue project have announced a breakthrough in embryo transfer that could save the northern white rhinoceros from extinction. According to the World Wildlife Federation, two genetically different subspecies exist—the northern and southern white rhino—found in two different regions of Africa. There are only two northern white rhinos left, both of which are female, living under protected housing in Kenya.

The BioRescue team achieved the world’s first rhino pregnancy through in vitro fertilization by implanting a southern white rhino embryo in a surrogate mother named Curra. Although the surrogate mother died after two months due to an unrelated infection, the successful embryo transfer offers proof of concept that this strategy could help save the northern white rhinos.

Plans are underway to implant a northern white rhino embryo into a southern white rhino surrogate mother. The scientists have used preserved sperm and eggs from the remaining females to make 30 preserved embryos. The BioRescue project has cost millions of dollars, supported by public and private donors. Eventually, the group hopes to reintroduce northern white rhinos into the wild.

THP Creative / CanvaPro

Matthew Skubis / CanvaPro

Hearing a Solar Eclipse

On April 8, millions of Americans along a 100-mile-wide path across 13 states from Texas to Maine will have an opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse. Thanks to a team from the Harvard University Astronomy Lab, people with visual impairments will be able to experience the celestial event, too, thanks to a smartphone-sized device called LightSound, which translates ambient brightness into sound.

Users of the LightSound device will hear a piping flute for daylight that will transition to a clarinet as the light dims when the moon passes in between the Earth and sun. As the eclipse reaches its zenith, LightSound will emit soft clicks to represent total darkness. The device is designed to complement the multi-sensory event, which may include a drop in temperature and the sounds of nighttime creatures like crickets and owls.

To make astronomy more inclusive, the Harvard team plans to distribute more than 700 LightSound devices at no cost. In addition, the device and its code are open-source so those with the skills can make their own. To learn more, visit Astrolab.fas. Harvard.edu/LightSound.html.

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‘Be The Medicine’ Allows Us to Find Peace and Live a Healing Lifestyle

By Debra Wallace

Janet StraightArrow is a healer’s healer and teacher’s teacher.

For nearly 60 years, Janet has studied and practiced worldwide methods of mind, body, emotion, spirit, and soul medicine that were originally inspired by a dire medical diagnosis. Having assisted thousands of people to heal and help themselves during the past 42 years, Janet has learned a great deal through these experiences to better help make the process quicker and easier.

At the tender age of 15, Janet was told that she would not live long and that it would be a painful accelerated sickly life filled with infections and breakdowns in her body. Her father was 43, disabled, and forced to retire while grappling with chronic critical illnesses. Her doctor told her she was following in his footsteps; but at a much faster pace.

At this time Janet decided she wanted a different life without sickness and pain.

In a dramatic twist, she took charge of the physical, mental, psychological, and spiritual aspects of her well-being...which at age 71 she continues to do today for herself and appreciative recipients of her gifts as a master healer and profound teacher. She laughs when people think she is in her 50’s and says, “this is what living ‘Be The Medicine’ offers us.” As such, she is honored to be able to help someone who is going through physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual challenges in their life. “They want to really

Janet StraightArrow

change and heal, feel stuck, and they often come to me after they have tried everything else,” she explained.

She started her journey to ‘Be The Medicine’ for her own well-being. She found her passion and purpose was for living a full healthy, pain-free life of love, peace, and joy, and making it easily accessible to others.

Her work through ‘Be The Medicine’ has been gathered and refined into books and recordings set to unfold over the next few years. She has 11 books on her computer. Three are in the publication process. “This is my year to begin bringing my work out fully since people are now ready for deeper, more complete learning and healing.”

What Being a Shaman Means to Janet StraightArrow

Among the many aspects of her life that are unique, is her discovery of being a linage shaman at the age of 40. She discovered that, “A shaman is someone who heals themselves.” Which made perfect sense to her because that was her life since a teen.

As a grounded businesswoman, and top realtor, being a shaman was not exactly what she expected as her next profession. It was only when her natural gifts unfolded, and her studies accelerated, that was she able to understand her calling to fulfill the needs of people who came to her for healing and wisdom.

Janet explored decades of studies with renowned master healers, shamans, and spiritual teachers. She gratefully had several mentors whom she worked with closely for years. She also became a Reiki master and offers comprehensive training and has practiced for 30 years.

As much as she has studied with gurus and Zen masters, she also found her first and best training in mindfulness was driving race cars for six years on road racing tracks including Watkin’s Glen, and Pocono Raceway when she was in her 20s.

Janet’s education includes attending Harvard University Medical School’s Mind Body Institutes Continuing Education programs for several years. This was extremely helpful in her understanding of how medicine was beginning to integrate holistic methods and spirituality into their practice.

Her tool bag is a diverse offering and provides a holistic view that draws on what is needed by each person who works with her. “It’s all about energy healing, choices, and higher levels of awareness. I am always teaching people perspectives and the ways

to heal themselves.” she explained. “They participate and learn what causes diseases so they can help create health.”

Impactful Classes for Healers

Janet has unique and powerful classes for healers and everyone else who is interested in how to understand deeper nuances of what energy is, how it affects us, being supported in their spiritual growth, and how to channel pure healing energy. They also learn to be an aware and protected healer and human.

Soul Shamanism is Janet’s signature body of work that is accessed by healers and advanced seekers to help themselves and others on all levels from body to soul

Janet offers a variety of inspiring services conducted via Zoom, Facetime, on the phone, or in person. The offerings include private healing, coaching, teaching, clearing sessions, classes, workshops, professional training, retreats, building and land clearing, and progressive learning.

Her company’s website ‘Be The Medicine’ is a path of spiritual healing mastery in everyday life. Even the beginner classes and sessions catapult participants into a higher truth that leads to profound healing, awakening, and knowing.

A Lasting Legacy of Healing

Janet said the primary aspect of her work is using techniques that will help people change their mindset. “When we focus on perfect health instead of disease, we find our way to healing easily.”

She adds, “I lovingly help people to understand they are worthy and help them work through any fears and release them. They leave with a sense of hope that they didn’t have when they came in.”

“I have dedicated my life to sharing a new paradigm for health and wellness, that will go beyond my lifetime, which is ‘Be The Medicine.’ Living what I teach makes all of what I share easy to receive.”

Be The Medicine is located in Chester, New Jersey. For information, contact Janet StraightArrow at 973-647-2500 or Janet@bethemedicine.com. Visit her website at BeTheMedicine.com. See ad, page xx.

Debra Wallace is an award-winning journalist, editor, content writer, and motivational speaker with 25+ years of experience. Her passion is to increase opportunities for children and adults with autism and other special needs.

Heal-Our-World Checklist

Our current systems and practices are depleting the Earth’s resources at an increasing rate well beyond its capacity to renew itself. According to the World Wildlife Fund, it takes a year-and-a-half to generate the resources we use in one year. That’s an unsustainable path for the planet’s future.

The world needs topsoil to grow 95 percent of its food, and yet the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization estimated in 2019 that 90 percent of the Earth’s topsoil is likely to be at risk by 2050.

Such statistics seem daunting, but if each of us reduces their individual ecological footprint, together we can make a difference. Here is an action checklist. Consult it often and complete one action at a time. Think of incremental change as hope.

Foods and Goods

■ Plant a produce garden for homegrown sustenance.

■ Build a compost bin in the yard.

■ Shop at local farms and farmers markets.

■ Join a community-supported agriculture group.

■ Eat a meatless meal at least once a week.

■ Recycle paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metals.

■ Use reusable water bottles.

■ Shop with reusable bags.

■ Buy organic and regenerative organic foods.

■ Buy local, sustainably sourced and packaged products.

■ Choose products with less packaging to reduce waste.

Water

■ Take fewer and shorter showers.

■ Run the dishwasher only when it is full.

■ Fix leaks throughout the house.

■ Buy natural-fabric clothing; avoid synthetic garments.

■ Wash clothes in larger loads, on shorter cycles and in cold water; add a filter to absorb most microfibers.

■ Wash the car less often.

■ Avoid watering the lawn or power washing the home and walkways.

■ Set up a rain barrel to catch water for the garden.

■ Plant drought-tolerant plants.

Transportation

■ Walk, bike and take public transportation over driving.

■ Drive a small car; turn off the engine when idling more than 30 seconds.

■ Regularly service the car; change air filters, fill tires and maintain emission control systems.

■ Avoid short airplane trips; take a bus or train instead.

Energy Use and Toxins at Home

■ Choose energy-saving light bulbs and appliances.

■ Insulate walls, windows and ceilings.

■ Consider double-paned windows.

■ Keep thermostat low in winter and high in summer and strategically open windows.

■ Unplug electronics when not in use.

■ Hang-dry clothes.

■ Choose sustainably produced, nontoxic furniture.

■ Use biodegradable, nontoxic cleaning products.

Learn More About:

• Earth Overshoot Day, when humanity exhausts nature’s budget for the year, and how to #MoveTheDate at EarthOvershootDay.org.

• The personal footprint calculator at FootprintCalculator.org.

• Rodale Institute’s organic-growing resources at RodaleInstitute.org.

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Sustainable Travel

Wanderlust With the Earth in Mind

by Sara Kaplan

Whether travel is enjoyed for much-needed relaxation, cultural immersion or the opportunity to volunteer in an eco-program spotlighting permaculture or farming, journeying to places far and near greatly enriches our human experience. During these environmentally critical times, our travels may carry a hefty price tag that the planet can no longer afford. This does not mean we need to sacrifice adventure. Every traveler can make a difference not only for the Earth but for the local communities they visit.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, 8.1 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to travel and tourism. Being in the know and taking more responsibility for our environmental impact can be easier than commonly assumed, all the while inviting unexpected enjoyment.

Amanda Reiser, a global sustainable tourism specialist based in Pennsylvania, encourages her clients to consider the three pillars of sustainable tourism: environment, economy and equity. “We all can play a part in

fostering sustainable tourism and creating a more sustainable world," she explains, noting that a green-minded approach benefits not only the traveler but also the destination. "Ask yourself: Does my participation in this activity create a negative impact on the natural environment? Are there any actions to help reduce my environmental impact?"

A traveler’s footprint extends to the socio-cultural fabric of the destination, too. Reiser reminds travelers, “You may be in your destination for only a week, but the people who live there year-round feel the impacts of visitors every day, for better or worse.” By respecting local traditions and engaging locals in a respectful and inclusive manner, tourists can contribute positively to the cultural integrity of the communities they visit.

Greener Horizons

Instead of hitting all the trendy, transportation-reliant sights, opt to slow down and stay in one place for a longer period. This not only invites a richer, deeper experience but minimizes the need to hop onto

Dmitry Pichugin / CanvaPro

another plane or bus. To support the local economy of a desired destination, buy locally produced items and book small, private hotels and inns, rather than international chains. Dining at locally owned eateries supports small business while giving travelers higher-quality fare and a more authentic cultural experience.

When planning a trip, contemplate the many treasures of domestic travel or choose a location that is not drowning in overtourism. The influx of tourists can significantly strain fragile ecosystems, deplete resources and disrupt the lives of local communities. Consider destinations that can be crossed via boat, train or bus, such as the New York-Montreal border or clusters of countries in Europe or Southeast Asia.

Packing With Purpose

Making small choices even when packing a suitcase goes a long way. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and opt for brands that avoid chemicals harmful to coral reefs and tropical environments. Pack a cloth tote bag for daily excursions and a reusable water bottle to avoid single-use plastics. Remember that by using plastic containers more than once, we reduce the amount of waste that is released over time. Try not to overpack— bring only the most necessary items, preferably those that can be recycled, reused and disposed of properly.

Sojourning With Savvy

To avoid getaway glitches, become acquainted with local laws and regulations. When planning a fishing excursion, for example, identify the legally designated fishing spots and avoid harming endangered species, which are heavily protected under national and international regulations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) offers an interactive map to show where legal fishing areas are by state (fws.gov/fishing/map). Historical resources should also be taken into consideration. For instance, the Florida Keys require special permits for cultural, maritime, heritage and archeological

explorations, including snorkeling expeditions of ancient shipwrecks and other unique, underwater sites.

It is always best to ask whether a destination is a naturally protected sanctuary or requires special permits. The FSW is a good reference site for information on activities in national wildlife refuges and the endangered animals that live there. To enjoy these areas to their fullest, make sure to find a knowledgeable local tour guide that understands the laws of the land.

Traveling consciously involves personal responsibility toward the environment through individual actions. “You can make a difference,” says David Knight, a professor of tourism management at Colorado State University. “Regenerative travel is not just leaving things the way you found them. It’s a matter of giving more than you take.”

Don’t Be Greenwashed

Greenwashing is a corrupt practice by companies that claim to support conscious tourism but fail to live up to their claims.

Vetting businesses when planning a trip means delving into third-party research and reports to check the fine print. Before booking, make sure the ecolodge or eco-touring company being considered has a legitimate certification on their website. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) sets global standards and provides accreditations for destination managers, hotels and tour operators. There are also certifying groups in specific locations, such as the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawaii, and others that are accredited by the GSTC, like Preferred by Nature.

For tourism operations that have not been certified, the onus is on the traveler. “Check with the local chambers of commerce. They should know who is working toward sustainability and can direct you to those aligned with what you are looking for,” says Claudia Gil Arroyo, an agricultural agent for the Rutgers University Cooperative Extension, in New Jersey. “If a tour operator or destination does not have a clear goal on how they’re contributing to the environment, it is unlikely that they are actually green.”

Kamchatka / CanvaPro

For tourism to be truly sustainable, it must also be economically viable for local communities. Economic sustainability ensures that tourism dollars benefit the local economy, creating fair wages, local sourcing and community empowerment, and allowing communities to thrive while preserving their cultural heritage. When traveling, support local, eco-friendly businesses that provide sustainable products.

A good example is agritourism—a vacation stay at a participating local farm—which can provide exciting, hands-on learning experiences. “Get out there. Look for your local growers and check out the services and

Sympathetic and nonjudgmental assistance starts with understanding your situation/challenges to create systems and implement changes that will “stick”.

activities they offer,” says Gil Arroyo. “People have this idea that agritourism is just picking your pumpkins and that’s it, and there’s so much more that can be done at a farm.”

Eco-Friendly North American Parks

North America is home to many national parks—63 in the United States and 48 in Canada. Here are five exceptional examples that provide a sustainable, eco-friendly vacation experience.

Yellowstone National Park is known for its geothermal features, including the

famous Old Faithful geyser. It also has a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves and herds of bison. This U.S. park has implemented sustainable practices such as renewable energy installations, waste management programs and educational initiatives to promote conservation.

Great Bear Rainforest is a temperate locale on the central and northern coasts of British Columbia, Canada. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare Kermode bear, also known as the spirit bear. The park works closely with First Nations communities, implementing conservation measures to protect biodiversity and support eco-conscious businesses.

Everglades National Park is a unique wetland ecosystem in Florida known as the “River of Grass”. It provides habitat for numerous endangered species, such as the Florida panther and the West Indian manatee. The park employs restoration efforts to preserve the natural water flow and conserve wildlife, with plenty of opportunities for eco-friendly recreational activities like kayaking and hiking.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is located on the northern tip of the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. It offers breathtaking coastal views, rugged cliffs and stunning hiking trails. The park implements waste reduction, energy conservation, ecological restoration and educational programs to promote environmental stewardship.

Redwood National and State Parks, in California, are home to the tallest trees on Earth, the majestic coast redwoods. Sustainable eco-practices include trail maintenance and restoration, wildlife protection, interpretation programs to educate visitors about the delicate ecosystem, and conservation efforts to combat climate change and preserve redwood habitat.

Sara Kaplan is an environmentally conscious freelance writer and eco-traveler from Fort Collins, CO.

Maria Kray / CanvaPro

The Importance of Prayer

by Dan McMeans

The reasons for praying to a Higher Power are many—being thankful, feeling depressed, in need of healing or simply struggling. The key to prayer is to be persistent and follow a plan that reflects your prayer.

Prayer is a petition to a Higher Power, or whomever one worships, for comfort and help, and for guidance in whatever actions are needed to bring things into materialization. Through this spiritual reaching, we are asking for help, and also learning to trust in something beyond ourself. As we continue to practice prayer, we learn to weigh the changes we need to make in order to receive more abundant graces.

Prayer is both sending and receiving. We share our needs, and then become receptive to answers or directions as we go down the path of enlightenment. We also become aware of past mistakes to help us foster a level of supplication and prayer that will bring a better resolution of our salvation. But as we focus on moving forward in line with a Higher Power, we become aware of a loving universe with perfect contrition and begin to see how needs and events start to unfold in our favor.

Dan McMeans is a mind, body and spirit advisor that practices pranic healing and Reiki. For information, contact Dan at 267570-9042 or dan_ mcmeans@yahoo.com or visit HolisticPranic Healer.com. See ad, this page.

PRANIC HEALER

PRANIC HEALER & REIKI CONSULTATION

WHAT IS PRANIC HEALING?

Pranic Healing influences your natural life force to bring about healthier living body. Pranic Healing is a method of healing that uses the body’s energy fields and the life-force energy known as prana, which is used to help heal the mind, body, spirit.

WHAT IS REIKI?

Reiki dates back to 770 AD, and was rediscovered in 1922 when Dr. Usui who climbed Mount Kurama in Kyoto City in a Buddhist Temple where he discovered the ancient healing techniques and symbols of Reiki.

“My experience was wonderful! Dan explained everything to me as the session was going on. I feel like a new person.”

— Diane Wesoski

Farm Vacations

American Agritourism Grows in Post-Pandemic Times

by April Thompson

Long a staple of European travel, agritourism is growing in popularity in the United States, as concrete-weary urbanites seek out a taste of country living and a way to support small-scale farms. The concept broadly covers any activity linking agriculture with tourism, and it takes as many forms as there are farms. Farm-stay options run the gamut from helping with farm chores like feeding chickens and collecting eggs to structured classes on weaving, soap making or beekeeping.

“Living in towns and cities, most Americans are very disconnected from nature and agriculture. Farm stays are helping to make an important urban-rural connection,” says Scottie Jones, founder of Farm Stay USA, an association connecting travelers with working farms and ranches that offer hands-on opportunities and overnight accommodations.

Since 2007, Jones has operated her own farm stay, the 70-acre Leaping Lamb Farm, in Alsea, Oregon. She has been surprised at many guests’ “agricultural illiteracy”, underscoring the importance of the educational experiences that farm stays like hers offer. “I used to send guests off to graze in the garden alone, but then realized many people don’t know what carrots look like in the field,” says Jones. “I would get questions like, ‘Don’t you need a brown cow to make chocolate milk?’”

More than one in three guests to Leaping Lamb Farm return for subsequent stays, a very high retention rate for the lodging industry. “We get to watch families grow up as they return to the farm year after year. That has a real impact, as we need the next generation to get involved in farming and food systems,” Jones notes.

Justin Bolois, of Los Angeles, got introduced to agritourism in Tuscany, later seeking out the farm experience closer to home. “We had been living in New York City at the time and came to value the expansive countryside being in Italy,” he says. “The family, which ran a vineyard, would cook incredible meals for us. Vacations are great when they mirror the experience of living in a place, and agritourism is one of the closest ways to access that.”

Bolois and his wife later discovered Straus Home Ranch, in Marshall, California, and fell in love with the place and its people so deeply they hosted their wedding there. The ranch was founded by a pair of pioneers in organic farming and land conservation in Marin County, and it was later revitalized to include a farm stay by siblings Vivien, Miriam and Michael Straus after their

parents’ deaths. “You can tell that Vivian and Michael not only care about what they do, they also care about you, and about you enjoying their life mission. That’s a very special bond to develop with an agritourism owner,” Bolois says.

The ranch features special touches, including a beautifully equipped kitchen to shuck local oysters or to host private chefs for farm-fresh meals served on a handcrafted table made of reclaimed redwood from their old hay barn. There is no cellphone reception on the ranch, encouraging guests to kayak, hike, birdwatch and stargaze.

“After being cooped up during COVID, people want to see wildlife and biodiversity again. People are aching to disconnect from their screens and reconnect with nature— what we call ‘dirt therapy’,” says Ashley Walsh, president and founder of Poconos Organics, one of the largest Regenerative Organic Certified farms on the continent, sprawling across 380 acres in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.

Walsh built the boutique resort, The Village at Pocono, with her grandfather when she was 25 as a sister destination to the farm. The accommodations feature full kitchens where guests can cook a cornucopia of produce fresh from the fields. Visitors can enjoy luxurious amenities on site, then pop over to the farm to attend hands-on cook ing classes, wellness retreats, farm tours and more.

Beyond connecting with rural life, farm stays are a meaningful, mutually beneficial way for farmers and consumers to reconnect on a personal level. “Agritourism puts a face to farming. We want to educate people so they can make better choices in food and get to experience what really fresh food tastes like,” Jones says.

Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

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From Organic to Grass-Fed to Regenerative

Finding the Best Farming Practices

by Sara English

Embarking on a journey toward healthier eating often begins with a quest for a better understanding of food-labeling and food-sourcing options. For those taking their first steps into the world of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture, terms like grass-fed, organic and regenerative can be both intriguing and perplexing. Understanding these distinctions empowers consumers to make choices aligned with their values and priorities when selecting food products.

Conventional Farming

“Conventional farming practices involve very heavy equipment, heavy tillage and a lot of inputs—chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides,” says Elizabeth Whitlow, the executive director of the Regenerative Organic Alliance. “Despite its high outputs, conventional farming does not necessarily guarantee nutritious, healthy crops.”

A majority of our meat originates from animal feeding operations (AFOs), where animals are commonly raised in confinement and fed genetically modified grains, as opposed to grazing or foraging in pastures or rangelands. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Manure and wastewater from [AFOs] have the potential to contribute pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus, organic matter, sediments, pathogens, hormones and antibiotics to the environment.”

Grass-Fed Beef

Grass-fed farming focuses on feeding livestock grass rather than grains and, in some cases, allowing them to forage for their food, which is considered more humane than AFOs. Rotational grazing, common in grass-fed farming, contributes to environmental sustainability by promoting soil fertility and biodiversity.

According to a 2019 review published in Nutrition Journal that compared the nutritional profiles of grass-fed and grain-fed beef, scientists from the California State University College of Agriculture noted that grass-fed beef tends to be lower in overall fat and higher in several heart-healthy fatty acids and antioxidants, including omega-3s, conjugated linoleic acid, precursors for vitamins A and E, and glutathione. The authors also note, “To maximize the favorable lipid profile and to guarantee the elevated antioxidant content, animals should be finished [fed before slaughter] in 100 percent grass or pasture-based diets.”

While there is no federal standard for a grass-fed label, third-party certifiers that may lend a level of reliability include the American Grassfed Association and A Greener World. Look for 100 percent grassfed and grass-finished certification, and remember that a grass-fed label doesn’t automatically mean that the product is organic or regenerative organic.

USDA Organic Certification

Established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1990, the USDA Organic certification and farming practices focus on soil health, biodiversity and natural methods of pest and weed control, rather than using synthetic inputs like chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, or genetically modified organisms. According to the USDA, 17,445 certified organic farms operated a total of 4.9 million acres in 2021, amounting to less than 1 percent of U.S. farmland. From 2019 to 2021, sales of organic crops increased 5 percent to $6.1 billion.

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A 2019 study published in the journal Environmental Research reported that an organic diet may reduce exposure to a range of pesticides in children and adults. A 2024 review of studies published in the journal Food noted that certain health benefits have been associated with a higher consumption of organic foods, including a reduction in obesity, improvements in blood nutrient composition and a reduction in the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and colorectal cancers. Rodale Institute’s Vegetable Systems Trial, a long-term, side-by-side comparison of conventional and organic methods, is designed to analyze nutrient density and explore the links between soil health and human health.

Regenerative Farming

In addition to adhering to the core principles of organic farming, regenerative agriculture sets out to actively rejuvenate and improve ecosystems, nurture soil health,

foster biodiversity and promote water retention, with the added benefit of sequestering environmental carbon by returning it to the soil. According to Kegan Hilaire, a small-farms consultant for Rodale Institute, this type of farming prioritizes human health, farmworker conditions, animal welfare and animal integration into farming methods. Farms and products that bear the Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC) label “meet the highest standards in soil health, animal welfare and social fairness,” Whitlow explains. As of 2023, 156 farms and about 1.1 million acres have received this certification, which is overseen by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, a nonprofit group of experts in farming, ranching, soil health, animal welfare, and farmer and worker fairness.

Voting With Our Pocketbooks

Hilaire points out that only about 1 percent of the U.S. population are farmers, fewer are certified organic or regenerative, and many small farms employ these methods without getting the official paperwork. “The best certification is meeting your farmer and deciding if you trust where your food is coming from,” he suggests.

Grass-fed, organic and regenerative organic foods each offer unique benefits, from improved nutrition to environmental sustainability. Every purchase becomes a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. By selecting products aligned with our values, we can collectively drive positive change in the food system and shape a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Sara English is the owner of Wild Roots Farm Marketing, a digital marketing firm for regenerative farmers and ranchers. Connect at WildRootsFarmMarketing.com.

Relief for Parkinson’s Patients

How Traditional and Complementary Interventions Can Help

by Madiha Saeed, M.D.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, more than 10 million people worldwide and nearly 1 million Americans are living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Every year, nearly 90,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with this ailment, which causes the gradual loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Symptoms that develop slowly over years include tremors; stiff muscles; a slow, shuffling gait; and difficulties with movement and speech.

There is no cure for PD, and by the time a patient is diagnosed, they may have already lost 60 to 80 percent of their dopamine-producing cells. According to Kenneth Sharlin, a board-certified neurologist and certified functional medicine doctor, the first line of defense for PD is levodopa (L-Dopa), a pharmaceutical that is converted to dopamine in the body. “Unfortunately, natural strategies don’t get a lot of research, so no supplement has been shown to effectively treat the disease,” he asserts. “Mucuna pruriens, a tropical legume that grows in Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands, naturally contains levodopa, but studies have shown it to be unreliable.”

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in controlling memory, mood, sleep, learning, concentration and movement. “If the car doesn’t have gas, then you can’t drive it,” explains Sharlin. Once a patient is taking levodopa to bring dopamine levels up, complementary strategies can be employed to help manage PD symptoms by as much as 73 percent, according to a panel of doctors participating in The Parkinson’s Solutions Summit. Exercise, sleep and even intimacy with a partner can all be managed well once the car has “gas” to drive it.

Exercise

According to Sharlin, the number one strategy for PD patients to maintain their motor function is exercise such as bicycling, chair yoga, movement classes in warm water pools, Pilates and dance. A meta-analysis published in Gerontology and Geriatrics analyzed 15 randomized controlled trials involving 498 participants in several countries to investigate the health impacts

of self-directed physical activity (SDPA) on patients with early and mid-stage PD. The study examined the effects of moderateintensity exercises, including aerobics, dance, strength training, flexibility exercises and Nordic walking. The researchers found that the SDPA significantly enhanced gait function, balance, mobility, function and postural control.

Gut Health

Monitoring gut function is very important for patients with PD, as constipation is very common,” states Trupti Gokani, a board-certified neurologist, health and mindset coach, and Ayurvedic expert. Improving gut function with the help of key nutrients from vegetables, fruits, clean protein, nuts and seeds, olive oil, herbs and spices has been shown to slow the progression of the disease. It is best to choose organic when possible, as that will decrease the exposure to brain-toxic chemicals. A gluten-free diet has also been found to improve PD symptoms.

Sharlin recommends an antioxidant-rich diet packed with polyphenols, along with green tea that contains catechins called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a natural antioxidant with neuroprotective properties.

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Stress Reduction

Anxiety linked to PD can worsen the symptoms,” Gokani points out. Chronic stress is a risk factor for PD, because it elevates the hormone cortisol, which can interfere with neuronal plasticity and damage dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

Incorporating deep breathing, meditation and other relaxation techniques is integral to improving the patient’s quality of life. According to Sharlin, “Mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques to self-regulate have a positive impact in regulating Parkinsonism.”

New Test to Confirm Diagnosis

When a patient comes to his office exhibiting PD symptoms, Sharlin now has a new way to confirm a PD diagnosis by taking a small tissue sample and sending it to the lab to look for a neural protein called alpha synuclein, which is associated with PD. In a 2023 National Institutes of Health study involving

428 people with PD and 120 control volunteers, this skin biopsy was found to be very accurate, with 92.7 percent sensitivity.

Deep Brain Stimulation

According to Sharlin, deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a well-researched and well-developed treatment for PD. The surgical therapy involves implanting electrodes within areas

of the brain to interrupt irregular signals that cause movement-related symptoms. A 2019 retrospective study of 400 patients that underwent DBS implantation found that 75 percent of the participants felt the procedure provided symptom control.

Focused ultrasound is another PD tool, using ultrasound beams to destroy areas in the brain cells that are causing movement problems. This procedure is permanent and can be done on only one side of the brain, so it helps symptoms on only one side of the body. Treatment to both sides could cause speech, swallowing or memory problems. Sharlin notes that the results from focused ultrasound are no better than DBS and involve more intense intervention. Also, not all Parkinson’s patients are good candidates for this procedure.

Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, IL, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.

A Look at Single-Use Plastics

Understanding the Challenges and Solutions

by Sheryl DeVore

We might be tempted to bring plastic forks to a picnic or succumb to the expediency of prepackaged chips for our kids’ lunches, but single-use plastics wreak havoc on the environment and human health. Although marketed as disposable, most of these fossil fuel-derived, non-biodegradable items are not being recycled, so they languish indefinitely in landfills or pollute our waterways in the form of microplastics. “Plastic pollution has been linked to everything from infertility and cancer in humans to severe injury and death in wildlife,” says Veena Singla, senior scientist for the National Resources Defense Council, in New York.

Plastic Use Is Rampant

Roughly 30 percent of garbage in the U.S. comes from single-use plastics,” says Shawn Flood, a partner and vice president of operations and customer care at SBC Waste Solutions, a waste collection company based in Broadview, Illinois.

Marketed for their inexpensive, lightweight, flexible and impermeable qualities, we have come to rely on plastic grocery bags, shrink wrapping, drink bottles, stickers, K-cups, straws, gloves, takeout containers and other throwaway products. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 380 billion plastic bags and wraps are used annually, which require 12 million barrels of oil to make.

Recycling Is Not Happening

Many plastic products that could be recycled are still getting tossed into the landfill. “The biggest problem is contamination,” Flood explains. “When someone puts a plastic milk jug into the recycling bin and there’s still milk inside of it, that ends up getting trashed. Those products become single-use plastics when consumers don’t do the correct job of washing recyclables.”

Banning Single-Use Plastics

Over the past few decades, countries including Costa Rica, France and Italy, as well as some U.S. states, have introduced laws that prohibit or tax single-use plastics. “They are banning single-use plastics in California,” Flood notes. “Everything is paper. Basically, you cannot find a plastic straw,” Flood notes.

Other states following the trend to ban certain plastics include Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New York, Oregon, New Jersey and Vermont. The U.S. Department of the Interior is phasing out single-use plastics on public lands, including national parks, by 2032. A Los Angeles County public works study reports that a ban on plastic bags in San Jose has led to reductions of plastic bags found in storm drains (89 percent), rivers (60 percent) and residential areas (59 percent).

Some states, however, have chosen to protect the continued use of these items. For example, Indiana passed a bill in 2016 prohibiting city and county officials from taxing or restricting the use of disposable plastic bags by certain retailers. Similar laws have been enacted or proposed in Wisconsin, Idaho, Florida and Arizona.

Beware of Greenwashing

New single-use products are continually being introduced that claim to be better for the environment, but consumers need to be cautious of such promises, says Brandon Leeds, co-founder of SOFi Paper Products, based in Miami, Florida. “There’s a

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tremendous amount of greenwashing going on,” he explains. “They stamp the products as eco-friendly. For example, some agave straws are predominantly made with plastic and just mixed with agave.”

SOFi manufactures straws and drinking cups that are 100 percent paper, 100 percent plastic free and 100 percent compostable. They sell to 4,000 businesses in the U.S., including mom-and-pop coffee shops, highend restaurants, convenience stores and popular food chains. Leeds remarks, “Our company mission is to educate people.”

Choosing Better Options

Alternatives to plastic, such as cotton or paper bags, also have environmental impacts, and the jury is out on whether single-use plastic bans can really improve

the environment, according to Enhesa, a company that helps businesses with regulatory compliance.

A study commissioned by the American Recyclable Plastic Bag Alliance, a group that represents U.S. manufacturers and recyclers of plastic bags, found that New Jersey’s ban resulted in a 60 percent decline in bag volume. However, the study also found six times more woven and non-woven polypropylene plastic was used to produce reusable bags, which are not widely recycled. The non-woven bags consume 15 times more plastic, and their production generates five times the greenhouse gas emissions per bag than the thin plastic bags.

Flood says one solution may be “to go back to the early days when glass was used for

everything, and it could be used over and over.” Several states have created container deposit laws related to glass and plastic. In Oregon, for example, nearly every business that sells certain beverages in redeemable sealed containers is legally required to accept returned containers that can be recycled or reused.

The bottom line, Flood asserts, is that people need to move away from a throwaway mentality and stop using single-use plastics. “The consumer has the power to do anything,” he says. “When I go on vacation and I’m walking on the beach, I’m picking up pieces of plastic everywhere.”

Sheryl DeVore is a frequent contributor to national and regional publications and has authored six books on science, health and nature. Learn more at SherylDeVore.wordpress.com.

Exploring Beyond the Classroom

Nurturing Healthy Minds Through Travel

by Megy Karydes

When Desiree Miller and her daughter visited Rome, they met a couple from Ukraine celebrating their honeymoon. There was talk of a possible war, so they chatted about what that might mean for the newlyweds. Later that day, her daughter asked their Italian driver his thoughts about the impending conflict in Ukraine with Russia, and he said he didn’t like it because it was going to raise gas prices.

“Traveling feels like it shrinks the world,” says Miller, an Atlanta-based travel writer, vlogger, digital streaming producer, co-host of the “Time to Talk Travel” podcast and mother of four. “So many children these days only know what’s in their backyard or their general neighborhood or community, the school they go to, and that’s the extent of their communication with other people. But when I take my daughter to other countries, she gets to experience people from those countries and beyond.”

According to the 2023 U.S. Family Travel Survey released by the Family Travel Association, 80 percent of the respondents indicated that travel helps children see the world from a broader perspective, and 67 percent said their children have become more interested in other cultures because of their travel experiences.

Nasreen Stump agrees that travel expands a child’s worldview. “I want my kids to be curious, because curiosity leads to lifelong learning,” says the mother of four, a content creator and co-host of the “Time to Talk Travel” podcast. “When you’re in different places, and you see something that’s different, you think, ‘Oh, what’s that?’ and want to learn more about it. It’s the same with similarities.”

Managing Expenses

Families need not break the bank to enjoy meaningful experiences away from home. Here are a few money-saving travel ideas suggested by Stump and Miller.

• Take shorter trips. As they’ve grown older, each of Stump’s children have developed different interests, so instead of traveling as a family all the time, she takes each of them on one-on-one trips based on their interests. When the family does come together for an excursion, a day trip or weekend getaway is a more affordable option.

• Hop on the internet. Miller’s youngest daughter, now 18 years old, loves using TikTok as a jumping-off point to research travel destinations, local restaurants, activities and events. Other kids rely on YouTube to get ideas or travel virtually.

• Enjoy a staycation. For families that can’t afford multiple plane tickets, closer-tohome experiences offer fun learning opportunities such as attending a multicultural fair to watch live performances or trying a new cuisine at a nearby restaurant or in a cooking class.

• Take advantage of free or discounted deals. Some libraries offer free passes to museums for library card holders. National parks have free entrance days throughout the year. Check nps.gov for upcoming dates. Flights and hotels are often discounted during the shoulder

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season—the period between a region’s peak season and offseason. Some credit cards allow members to use their reward points for travel-related discounts.

Preparing for Travel

• Research destinations. Bookmark areas of interest on a Google map or add them to a Pinterest board. Read books, magazine articles and travel blogs about different locales.

• Sample the cuisine. Much can be learned about a culture through food. Experiment with new ingredients by visiting specialized grocery stores that cater to different cultures, or join a snack subscription with selections from around the world.

• Learn a new language. Check out apps like Duolingo, Babbel and Rosetta Stone.

Traveling Is Empowering

Life is full of challenges, and traveling, especially to foreign ports, can test anyone’s patience. Some of Miller’s children don’t love to travel because of flight delays or other unexpected mishaps. Her youngest is more adaptable. According to Miller, dealing with adversity is part of life, and travel is a great teacher.

Traveling allows kids to get out of their comfort zones, and for many, that sense of adventure is powerful. Whether exploring historical landmarks, taking part in hiking excursions, trying new foods, hearing different languages and dialects, or meeting new people, family travel can help children feel more comfortable, less isolated and see the world in a new light.

Making Memories

Children love to collect souvenirs on their travels as a way to remember their experiences. Miller and her daughter usually buy a piece of jewelry because it is small and doesn’t take up any suitcase space. Stump’s family likes to take lots of photographs and bring home candy from the culture. Rocks or shells, if permitted, also make wonderful keepsakes.

Memories go beyond objects. Multi-generational travel allows children to see their grandparents from a fresh perspective. Kids will remember travel experiences long after they return home. “Travel gives you a real appreciation of the world beyond what you see every day,” Miller says, adding that her daughter has befriended other travelers with whom she still stays in contact.

Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress: Scientifically Proven Ways to Relieve Anxiety and Boost Your Mental Health Using Your Five Senses.

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Get Fit and Get Outside

How to Prepare for Outdoor Treks

by Marlaina Donato

Hitting the trails offers something for everyone, whether it’s hiking for the day or backpacking and roughing it overnight in remote areas. According to the 2022 Outdoor Participation Trends Report, getting up close and personal with Mother Nature is more popular than ever in the States, with 58.7 million hikers and 10.3 million backpackers in 2021.

With health benefits like stronger heart health, a lower risk of respiratory ailments and a boost in mental health, hiking is a fun way to stay fit, but prepping for the physical demands of local trails or wilderness is essential for both endurance and injury prevention. “A strong, well-conditioned body is your best ally when crossing rough terrain and overcoming unexpected challenges,” says Larry Pringle, a certified fitness trainer and founder of Perfect Fit Training and Nutrition, a holistic training hub for busy entrepreneurs.

A Trail Plan for Any Age

With great diversity of trail challenges to choose from, hiking is doable for most people. “If you're generally healthy, no matter your age, you can complete any hike you’ve always wanted to do,” says Fit for Trips hiking coach Marcus Shapiro. “I have had the privilege of working with many individuals who are over 70 years old, and they have successfully reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and the base camp of Mount Everest.”

Shapiro estimates an eight-to-12-week training regimen for younger hikers and 12 to 16 weeks of preparation for older enthusiasts. For the best fitness outcome, he underscores the importance of choosing the right exercises for the sport, explaining, “Every recreational activity requires a unique training approach for best results. It’s called ‘specificity of training’.” His Fit for Trips training includes inclines, stairs, lunges, distance and high-intensity interval training.

To meet the challenge of walking for hours at a time, cardiovascular conditioning like jogging, brisk walking, time on the treadmill

or cycling is a good place to begin. Adding a heavy backpack of survival supplies to the equation requires extra strength in the legs, core and upper body and is best achieved through squats, planks, lunges and pushups. Full body stretching with emphasis on hamstrings, quadriceps, hips and back are also essential.

Make It a Lifestyle

To avoid weekend warrior injuries, it is wise to adopt a hiker’s mentality in everyday life. “Start slow and find ways to incorporate more movement into your daily life,” advises Maggie Peikon, communications director of American Hiking Society. “Skip the escalator or elevator and opt for taking the stairs instead. You’ll be glad to have gotten those extra steps in when you’re taking on uphill climbs out on the trail.” She also hails the perks of biking to the store with a backpack or walking to the park for a lunch break if it is safe and feasible. Most of all, Peikon stresses the value of going slow and listening to the body.

The benefits of getting outdoors goes beyond physical health and spills over into positive impacts on the environment. Peikon

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muses, “When we hike, our connection to the places we explore grows. When we feel connected to a place—whether a trail or a favorite spot outdoors—we are more likely to step forward to protect the environment and change our behavior to lessen our negative impacts.”

For Pringle, having a strong body carries over into other areas of living. “Getting ready for the trails means getting ready for life. Before you hit those paths, hit the gym. It’s not just about reaching mountaintops; it’s about reaching for your best self.”

National Trails Day

June 1 is National Trails Day, a day of service for hometown trails and the people that love them. Promoted by the American Hiking Society, public events throughout the country offer opportunities for tens of

thousands of participants to come together in partnership to advocate for, maintain and clean up public lands and trails. To learn more and find a nearby event, visit AmericanHiking.org/national-trails-day.

Finding a Nearby Trail

Check out these sites for detailed information about hometown trails that match the hiker’s level of ability.

• AllTrails.com

• FaroutGuides.com

• HikingProject.com

What to Pack on the Trail

• Sturdy, appropriate footwear—from trail shoes for moderate terrain to heavy hiking boots for strenuous climbs

• Nutrient-dense food

• Rain gear and dry-fast layers for changing weather

• Means to start an emergency fire

• Whistle

• Flashlight

• First-aid kit

• Multi-tool or knife

• Sunscreen, sunglasses and sun-protective clothing

• Lightweight protection from the elements Marlaina Donato is an author, visionary painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Calendar of Events

All calendar events for the April 2024 issue must be received by March 10 and adhere to our guidelines. To submit, visit NABuxMont.com/pages/calendar or email Kathy@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com for a submission form.

Saturday, April 6

Reiki One Certification Class – 10am6pm. Foundational class explores concepts of energy healing and self-discovery. Receive instruction on the essence of Reiki, introducing the principles, history, and techniques that form the basis of this ancient healing art. Inc. Reiki 1 manual and certificate of completion. $200. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com.

Thursday, April 9

Sound Journey with Alex – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Take a deep breath and experience this sound journey with Alex. Vibrations affect the body at the molecular level and improve our wellbeing. -Reduce stress and insomnia -Increase immune system strength -Reduce anxiety -Promote the nervous system regulation -Increase circulation -Accelerate healing -Increase mental clarity -Improve intuition and creativity. $25. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com.

Friday, April 12

Restorative Yoga with Reiki – 6:30-8pm. Release, relax, and renew. Learn how to cultivate a presence and truly reach a meditative state with this reiki and restorative yoga workshop. $50. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio. com/workshops.

Sunday, April 14

Reiki Share – 1-3pm. A collaborative healing event where all participate in the energy healing of each other. No experience necessary. Our Reiki Masters will invite the Reiki energy in, and then everyone participates. $30. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

Singing Bowls with Ruth Ratliiff –4:30pm. Join us in the Scalar Energy Field for an hour of singing bowls. $40. Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

Sunday, April 21

The Protected Healer–Seeker 2024 – 10am5pm; in-person or Zoom. Learn how to see, feel, clear and even avoid energy attacks in your life, work, and play. These are powerful and essential teachings for healers and everyone. Led by Janet StraightArrow. Gain

awareness, wisdom, and knowledge and learn how easy it is to take action that keeps us safe, well, and able to help others. $325. Be The Medicine, 247 North Rd., Chester, NJ. For information, call 973-647-2500 and visit BeTheMedicine.com.

Saturday, April 27

Groove Dance Workshop – 11:30am12:30pm. No experience or skill needed. We come together to unite, celebrate, connect, play, heal, and get healthy through dance. A creative group dance experience with great music, come have fun! $25. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/ workshops.

Saturday, May 4

Soul Shamanism 101 Advanced Spiritual Journey – 5/4-5; 10am-4pm. Experience an Ancient Wisdom practice that offers you direct access to your soul, who you are, and why you are here, and guides you in how to live your true Self. Profound awareness, wisdom, healing, clearing, and ongoing access to your personal and spiritual growth journey evolve as you deepen this practice. $595. Be The Medicine, 247 North Rd., Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine. com.

Friday, May 10

Reiki 1 Energy Healing Training – 9:30am3:30pm. This practical, comprehensive, professional-level course offers personal healing and energy work teachings in addition to Reiki attunements, meditations, and practice, with everyone receiving an entire healing session: FULL DAY INTENSIVE Usui Reiki 1 Certificate, Reiki 1 book, and class recordings. $395/$425. Be The Medicine (Online In-Person-SessionsClasses-Retreats), 247 North Road, Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

Saturday, June 1

Space Within: EFT Tapping for Stress Reduction and Self-Regulation – 10am2pm. Join us on this journey towards improved well-being, where you’ll uncover how EFT can aid mindfulness and selfregulation while navigating the complexities of modern life. Bring a bag lunch. $95. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/ workshops/workshops/.

Friday, June 28

Women’s Treasure Yourself Retreat Catskills – 6/28-30; 2pm-1pm. Leave stress behind; as we dive into our beauty and truth, we awaken our strength, inner peace, and

deep love. Women are the original Shamans, Wise Women, Warriors, and Healers. Release old ways of thinking and being and go home a new woman refreshed with a new way to be. $695. Art Farm, 31 Fawn Road, North Rd., Accord, NY. For details, call 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

Ongoing

Sunday

Qi Gong with JoeyG – 10:30am. Join us in the Scalar Energy Field for an hour of qi gong with an energetic kick. $40. Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

Reiki 1 Energy Healing Training – 10am4pm. Reiki Master Janet StraightArrow leads this practical, comprehensive, professionallevel course offers personal healing and energy work teachings in addition to Reiki attunements, meditations, and practice. $390. Be The Medicine (Online In-PersonSessions-Classes-Retreats), 247 North Road, Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

Beginner Yoga Series for Dudes – 4-5:30pm. Thinking about starting yoga? Join Jeff as he teaches you the basics with breath work and postures. Meets on Sundays for 6 weeks (No class 3/10 or 3/31). $130 - Includes free 2-week yoga pass. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

Tuesday

Reiki 2 Advanced Training for Reiki 1 Grads – 7-9:15pm. A magical blend of Reiki attunements, teachings, and practice for self-healing and healing others to assist in building your immunity, staying well and energized, and learning to send healing energy to someone in the next room or across the world. Daily practices for healing self and others. Five nights on Zoom or in person in Chester, NJ. The class is extended over five weeks to allow students to learn through direct experience and distance practice to complete and embody the teachings. Comprehensive course awakens healing abilities in person and remotely. $525. Be The Medicine, 247 North Rd., Chester. BeTheMedicine.com.

Thursday

Beginner Yoga 101 Series – 7-8:15pm. A 6-class series over 3 weeks for beginner yogis. You’ll learn the basics from the ground up. Includes a pass for 2-weeks of unlimited yoga and barre classes. $130 for 6 classes. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

Your local source for natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

Chiropractic

CENTER FOR NATURAL HEALING

Jeffrey L Griffin, DC

252 W Swamp Rd, Ste 26, Doylestown 215-348-2115 • C4NH.com

Dr.griffin@c4nh.com

Life is full of symptoms stemming from just one cause… MEN! Mechanical, Emotional and Nutritional Stress. Well-studied, documented and very treatable provided the cause is known. That’s where we come in. Let our 37 yrs of experience help you begin feeling better today! Free phone consultation available when you mention Natural Awakenings magazine! See ad, page 21.

Dentistry - Holistic

LANAP & IMPLANT CENTER OF PA

David DiGiallorenzo, DMD

Henry Hsu, DMD

184 W Main St, Collegeville 610-409-6064 • PerioImplants.us

Providing oral health solutions through holistic, biologically compatible and organic practices. One of the world's most accomplished centers for periodontal and implant care, which integrates wellness services into their therapeutic approach. Experience with immediate total tooth replacement with metal-free dental implants, treating gum disease with LANAP, a no-cut, no-sew method of treating gum disease, comfortable gum grafting with PRGF, implant denture solutions, and chronic pain management. See ad, page 9

Energy Healing

DAN MCMEANS

Certified In the Arts of Pranic Healing and Reiki Consultation 267-570-9042

dan_mcmeans@yahoo.com

HolisticPranicHealer.com

Pranic Healing influences your natural life force to bring about a healthier body. It is based on the fundamental priciples that the body is a self-repairing living entity that possesses the innate ability to heal itself. See ad, page xx

Enzyme Nutrition

CENTER FOR NATURAL HEALING

Jeffrey L Griffin, DC

252 W Swamp Rd, Ste 26, Doylestown 215-348-2115 • C4NH.com

Dr.griffin@c4nh.com

Feeling poorly? Lacking answers? Frustrated by your health issues? I understand and want to help. Mention Natural Awakenings magazine and receive your exploratory phone consultation with Dr. Griffin completely free of charge. New patients welcome! See ad, page 21

Hair Restoration

THE HAIR FOR LIFE CENTER, LLC

201-731-3530

TheHairForLifeCenter.com

For over 35 years The Hair For Life Center has been helping women who experience hair loss. In as little as 2 to 3 hours we restore your hair to its natural state safely without using glues or extensions. For more information, visit at TheHairForLifeCenter.com. See ad, page 23

Life Coaching – Gestalt

STEP INTO JOY HEALING ARTS

Joan Summers, Certified Gestalt Coach, Trauma Professional and Reiki Master

267-272-9343 • StepIntoJoyHealingArts. com

Joan@StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com

Experience deep and long-lasting healing. Joan offers healing for her clients who are tired of feeling stuck, disconnected or without purpose. She offers Gestalt Life Coaching, Equine Gestalt Life Coaching and reiki, and you may choose to customize your session. See ad, page 5.

Reiki

STEP INTO JOY HEALING ARTS

Joan Summers, Certified Intuitive Reiki Master and Gestalt Coach 267-272-9343 • StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com

Joan@StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com

Experience peace of mind, enlightened awareness and physical restoration. The connections between physical pain and emotional trauma are often revealed during an intuitive reiki session. It is a practice of compassion and spiritual connection. See ad, page 5

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WholeBodyYogaStudio.com